A year has passed since Derek's motorcycle accident, but he still battles with brain injury symptoms. Forced to take a sick leave from work, Derek picks up painting to occupy his time. Through his art, he begins to rediscover his imagination and turns to his journal again. Meanwhile, a new business venture is on the horizon for Nick and he can't postpone his trip to Norway any longer. Concerned for Derek's safety, Nick convinces Derek that he needs someone to watch over him while he's away. Myles has just returned from Japan, where he spent time mending his heart after another disappointment. He's longing for a break, so when Nick and Derek reach out to him, he can't refuse. Each man wants what's best for Derek, but soon, Nick and Myles discover that they're not rivals, because what's there between them is echoed in Derek's heart. Can all three men let go of their fear and allow this new love to unfold?

Persimmon Kiss

“All right…try to sleep.” He fixed his bulletproof vest, hesitated a moment, and then walked away. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”


See, Bump, only a few hours ago, I believed I was going to lose my vision, my independence and mobility. Maybe even my life. And in this hospital, in this very moment, there are people who have lost all that.


Tonight, I heard the message. Loud and clear.18: Why Don’t You Treat Yourself


Waking was like being pulled out of a submarine after being at sea for a year. I blinked at the darkness. Couldn’t even tell what position my body was in. I slowly moved, turning to my side, and glimpsed my phone on the pillow next to mine. I ran a hand over my face, trying to get a grip on reality.


Everything came back to me in one big transmission of images and sounds.


“Oh, shit,” I groaned, grabbing my phone. What time was it?


Chapter 30